Conflict in the Middle East: Information for Canadians in the region and worldwide

Advice for Canadians in the Middle East

The armed conflict in the region makes the situation unpredictable, and it could get worse at any time. If it does, Canadians may not be able to leave, and the ability for the Government of Canada to provide assistance may be limited.

If you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident in the Middle East, the advice from the Government of Canada is to leave if commercial options are available—and if it is safe to do so.

If you stay in the region despite Canada’s advice:

stay alert and follow instructions from local authorities at all times, including orders to shelter in place
make sure your travel documents and those of your family members are up to date and meet entry requirements for your destination(s)
follow local and international news to stay informed as the situation changes quickly

Register with us

If your loved one is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident in the Middle East who cannot register themselves, you can register on their behalf and include their phone number.

You can also register by contacting Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If you’re already registered, make sure your contact details are up to date.

Avoid high-risk areas

There is an increased risk of attacks against civilian targets, especially those linked to U.S. interests. These include schools and universities, hotels, banks and businesses, particularly those in the technology and communications sectors.

Important infrastructure has also been targeted, including roads, bridges and energy and water systems.

Make informed decisions

Canadians in the Middle East should review the latest Travel advice and advisories for affected destinations.

Travel conditions can change quickly. You may experience disruptions to movement and transportation, such as border closures or restrictions, flight cancellations and airspace closures, which can occur without warning. Always check with your airline and local authorities before you travel.

Impacts on travel and security worldwide

The conflict in the Middle East is causing travel disruptions and security implications worldwide.

Global travel disruptions

It’s important to understand that your travel plans may be disrupted, even if you’re not travelling to, within or through the Middle East.

No matter the destination, flights may be delayed, rerouted or cancelled due to airspace restrictions and fuel shortages. Routes may be longer, and travel costs may increase. Changes can happen with little or no notice, so check with your airline or travel provider before you leave and before returning home.

If you’re travelling through a major international hub, especially in or near the Middle East, your itinerary may be disrupted.

If you’re unable to leave a country as planned and your visa is about to expire, contact local immigration authorities to ask about extensions or overstay options.

The conflict is also affecting global fuel supply and some supply chains. In some destinations, this may lead to fuel shortages or temporary rationing measures that affect transportation and essential services.

Global security implications

Tensions related to the conflict may increase security risks in some destinations outside the Middle East.

There is a higher risk of demonstrations and possible targeted attacks. Be especially alert in public places such as tourist areas, places of worship and embassies and consulates. Locations linked to the United States or Israel are at increased risk.

Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Travel documents required for travel to Canada or to a safe third location

You can’t travel to Canada or to a safe third location without a valid passport and the required entry documents.

All travellers—including Canadian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family members (spouses and dependent children)—must have valid documents to travel. If you need to leave quickly, your options are very limited without them.

You may be denied entry or only allowed to transit briefly if your passport is close to expiring (often within six months) or if you don’t have the required visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA).

Apply for or renew your documents as soon as possible:

More information can be found on the Visit Canada page.

Emergency assistance for Canadians in the Middle East

If you’re in the Middle East, the Government of Canada’s advice is to leave by commercial means if you can do so safely. Your ability to leave—and access to consular services—may become more limited if the situation worsens.

Around-the-clock consular support remains available to Canadians and permanent residents abroad, including those in the Middle East. If you need emergency assistance, contact the nearest embassy or consulate or Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre:

Email: ME-MO.SOS@international.gc.ca
Phone: +1-613-996-8885 (collect calls are accepted where available)
SMS: +1-613-686-3658
WhatsApp: +1-613-909-8881
Signal: +1-613-909-8087
TTY: +1-613-944-1310